Ectodermal dysplasias

Ectodermal dysplasias is a group of conditions in which there is abnormal development of the skin, hair, nails, teeth, or sweat glands.

Causes

There are many different types of ectodermal dysplasias. Each type of dysplasia is caused by specific mutations in certain genes. Dysplasia means abnormal development of cells or tissues. The most common form of ectodermal dysplasia usually affects men. Other forms of the disease affect men and women equally.

Symptoms

People with ectodermal dysplasia may not sweat or may have decreased sweating because of a lack of sweat glands.

In children with the disease, their bodies may have a problem controlling fevers. Even a mild illness can produce an extremely high fever, because the skin cannot sweat and control temperature properly.

Affected adults are unable to tolerate a warm environment and need special measures to keep a normal body temperature.

Possible Complications

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if your child shows symptoms of this disorder.

Prevention

If you have a family history of ectodermal dysplasia and you are planning to have children, genetic counseling is recommended. In many cases, it is possible to diagnose ectodermal dysplasia while the baby is still in the womb.

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